La Vera Noles Sanders passed away Tuesday morning, May 29, 2018 at the age of 96.
She was born to the late Vera and Chris Noles on September 12, 1921 in Sibley, Louisiana. La Vera had four siblings Christine Switzer, Chris Jr. (Bud) Noles, Margaret Harper, and Ed Noles, who have all preceded her in death.
La Vera and her first husband, the late Captain Roy Middleton, settled in Texas in the 1950s and together they had three children; the late Lee Middleton, Suzanne Middleton and Gregory Middleton.
After the death of her second husband, Otis Weldon Sanders, La Vera became owner and president of Oteco Equipment Company and remained active in the Texas business community through her life. She was a member of Houston Business Women’s Association, and as a rancher extremely active in the Red Brangus Association, in Caldwell, Texas. She proved herself to be a successful businesswoman and always conducted herself with grace and confidence.
In addition to her civic involvement, she was an active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, in Houston, Texas for over 50 years.
La Vera loved to travel, expand her horizons, and explore the cultures of the world. One of her favorite memories was experiencing the inaugural flight of the Concord and often remarked that it was the trip of a lifetime.
She also loved to spend time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She cherished every opportunity to be surrounded by family.
As a pioneer in her family to receive a college degree, education had always been a priority to La Vera. She committed financially to secure her grandchildren a four year college education, and continue this legacy of growth and knowledge.
La Vera is survived by daughter Suzanne Saathoff Cohen and son Gregory Middleton. Eight grandchildren Stephanie Jones, Stacey Chaston, Toby Ware, Michelle Ware, Cody Saathoff, Gary Middleton, Danny Middleton, and Garrett Middleton; and numerous great grandchildren.
Pallbearers for the service include: Toby Ware, Cody Saathoff, Jay Cohen, Gary Middleton, Danny Middleton and Larry Sommerfield.
Viewing will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, June 1, 2018 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 1101 Antoine Drive, Houston, Texas. Services held on June 2, 2018 at 3:00 PM at Woodlawn Funeral Home.
The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Hospice Plus for their care and is requesting that in lieu of flowers please donate to a Hospice Association.

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